PRESS STATEMENT: SOCIETY OF YOUNG NIGERIAN WRITERS (SYNW) THANKS PETER OBI FOR REMARKABLE PRESENCE AT THE 2023 CHINUA ACHEBE LITERARY FESTIVAL
On behalf of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW), I, Wole Adedoyin, the President of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW), extend our deepest gratitude to Mr. Peter Obi, the Former Governor of Anambra State and the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the last general election, for gracing the 2023 Chinua Achebe Literary Festival with his distinguished presence. Mr. Obi's attendance added immense prestige to our event, and his keynote speech resonated deeply with the festival's theme: "Ten Years After: Remembering Achebe’s Legacies in Today’s Nigeria."
The 2023 Chinua Achebe Literary Festival was an extraordinary gathering that celebrated literature, culture, and the enduring legacy of Chinua Achebe. We were honored to have Mr. Peter Obi as a key participant, and his insightful contribution during the festival's proceedings enhanced the intellectual depth of the event.
This year's festival featured various activities that underscored the significance of Achebe's contributions to Nigerian literature. The unveiling of the 8th Chinua Achebe Poetry/Essay Anthology - themed "Anthills of Words (In Memory of Achebe),", cutting of Achebe’s 93rd posthumous birthday cake, poetry renditions, dramatizations of Achebe’s books, the Chinua Achebe Essay Writing Competition, and the presentation of certificates/awards were just a few of the highlights that made the occasion truly memorable.
In addition to expressing our gratitude to Mr. Peter Obi, we would also like to extend our appreciation to other dignitaries who honored us with their presence at the festival. Our sincere thanks go to Mr. Oseloka Obaze, the former Secretary to the State Government and former Nigerian Diplomat, who added his distinguished presence to the occasion. We are equally grateful to Igwe Chidubem Iweka, the Chairman of the Occasion, and Prof. Stella Okunna, the first female Professor of Mass Communication in Sub-Saharan Africa, for their invaluable contributions to the success of the event.
The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) would also like to thank the state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji, and Mrs. Chioma Ifediorah, the Ministry’s Director of Arts and Culture, for their support and representation. Our gratitude extends to Mrs. Ifeyinwa Uzoka, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power and Water Resources, as well as other distinguished personalities present, including Uzor Maxim Uzoatu, Okeke Chika Jerry, Mr. Arinze Omenwa, Dr. Nkechi Udeze, Reginald Chinedu Ofordile, and many others.
The success of the 2023 Chinua Achebe Literary Festival is a testament to the collaborative efforts of all participants and sponsors. We are grateful for the support and commitment shown by everyone involved in making this event a resounding success.
Thank you.
Wole Adedoyin
President,
Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW)